Absolute power corrupts absolutely

Definitions

• abuse of power
  Refers to the idea that when a person or group has complete control or authority over others, they are likely to become corrupted and use their power for their own selfish gains, often at the expense of others.

• unchecked authority
  Suggests that when someone is given unlimited power, they are more likely to act without restraint or accountability, leading to unethical behavior and harmful actions.

Examples of Absolute power corrupts absolutely

• The dictator's thirst for power consumed him completely, as absolute power corrupts absolutely.

  This idiom highlights the idea that when someone has complete control and authority, they may become corrupt and abuse their power. It suggests that this corruption is not just a small part of their character, but rather takes hold of them completely. The phrase "absolute power corrupts absolutely" is often used to describe authoritarian regimes or individuals who wield too much power.

• The CEO's greed for money blinded him to the needs of his employees, as absolute power corrupts absolutely.

  In this example, the idiom is used to illustrate how someone's desire for wealth can lead to a disregard for others and a corruption of their values. The CEO's focus on his own financial gain may have caused him to neglect the well-being of his employees, highlighting the destructive nature of absolute power.

• The politician's ambition for political gain led him to make compromises that went against his principles, as absolute power corrupts absolutely.

  This example demonstrates how the pursuit of political power can lead to a loss of moral integrity. The politician's desire to advance his career may have caused him to make decisions that went against his beliefs, showing the corrupting influence of absolute power.

• The celebrity's obsession with fame and fortune led him to mistreat those around him, as absolute power corrupts absolutely.

  In this example, the idiom is used to explain how someone's fixation on fame and fortune can lead to a lack of empathy and respect for others. The celebrity's focus on his own success may have caused him to mistreat those around him, highlighting the destructive nature of absolute power.

• The athlete's addiction to performance-enhancing drugs destroyed his career and reputation, as absolute power corrupts absolutely.

  This example shows how the pursuit of athletic success can lead to a loss of moral values and a corruption of one's character. The athlete's use of performance-enhancing drugs may have caused him to lose sight of what was truly important, highlighting the corrupting influence of absolute power.

Conclusion

This idiom is often used to caution against giving too much power to a single person or entity, as it can lead to negative consequences for both the person in power and those under their control. It serves as a reminder that even the most well-intentioned individuals can be corrupted by the allure of absolute power.

Origin of "Absolute power corrupts absolutely"

The phrase "absolute power corrupts absolutely" is often attributed to the 19th century British politician Lord Acton. In a letter written in 1887, Acton stated, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." This statement was made in reference to the corrupting nature of power and the dangers of giving unchecked authority to individuals.

However, the concept of the corrupting nature of absolute power has been discussed and debated for centuries. Ancient Greek philosopher Plato wrote about the dangers of tyranny and the corrupting influence of absolute power in his work "The Republic." The phrase "absolute power corrupts absolutely" has also been used in literature and plays, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Overall, the idiom "absolute power corrupts absolutely" serves as a cautionary reminder to be wary of those who hold too much power and to strive for balance and checks and balances in systems of authority.